Preparing for Your Beach Trip

Training/Practice Exercises

The great thing about the beach is you don’t need any training to enjoy it. You just have to show up. Many don’t even get in the water, but will just lie in the sand and soak in the sun or stick to their resorts pool areas.

Although showing off hot bodies is a popular past time at many beaches, the physical fitness of beachgoers is not always like the movies. Many beachgoers are out of shape, but even so most do know how to swim and can manage to keep themselves above water. If you cannot swim, you shouldn’t get too far in the water. Swimming lessons, although not generally done at the beach, are quite common for children and even adults. Check at your local pool for more information.

Gear Requirements/Packing lists

To go to the beach you literally need nothing. Just go to a nude beach and you’ll see exactly what I mean. There are a plethora of things you can bring to help you enjoy the beach more and make your trip more comfortable.

A good beach bag can do wonders. Not just the bag, but what you put in it. Apart from sunscreen, sunglasses, and lotion, there are numerous items to consider. Your swimsuit or bathing suit is one item everyone needs, except of course the nudies. They come in a variety of styles and fabrics. For guys, the long, surf style shorts are most popular, though in European countries tight Speedo trunks are common as well. For women, there are many styles from tiny thong bikinis, to one piece suits, to boy shorts and bikini tops, strapless, and many others. Keep in mind that many Muslim countries strictly enforce laws concerning women wearing revealing clothing.

Many women like to wear a shawl, cover, or some kind of loose beach shirt to cover themselves when they are wandering around. Tank tops are popular among men, but occasionally looked down upon in restaurants and hotels. Sandals or flip flops are the ideal beach footwear for many. Most sandals can get wet without being damaged. They are light and airy. Rubber sandals with Velcro straps can be a blessing for many in tropical areas, especially if any hiking is involved. They are rugged enough to climb stone steps and to cross streams without getting damaged.

If you have children a plastic bucket does wonders for building sandcastles. For older kids bring a boogie board or surfboard. A Snorkel, mask, and fins or your diving equipment is a good idea if you want to explore the reefs, although all can be rented in most locations.

In many beach destinations rain can last for weeks and even during dry seasons a strong bout of rain can occur, therefore waterproof and easy drying clothing is a good idea. Ponchos, raincoats, and umbrellas are also a good idea to keep in your luggage or beach bag.

Last but not least, a good book. There’s something magical to be said about lying in the sun and reading.